Thanks Matthew
I will try that on the driver flange and the pilot and see if it changes things. I did try running the Loco with no tender and it still did it so that source is out of the loop but i appreciate the ideas. My big concern was something was going bad in the drive train but hopefully it is a you noted just flange noise. I will test it and post the result...thanks again for the ideas 
cheers
matt

Sid
Yes, i have put conductive lubricant on the pilots and it didnt really change anything. I also lubed the drivers and side rods ect. it had no effect.
thanks
matt

My Anniversary Loco has developed what appears to be a intermitant wheel squeek when it goes around curves and only on the curves. I have both 8 foot diameter and 5 foot diameter curve radius's so i dont believe thats the issue. I have checked the pilot set and they appear to be ok but i have noticed about .1" of side movement on the front drive set and am wondering if this could be the issue. Would appreciate any info form the knowledge base here. 

thanks
matt

Thanks All, probably a no brainer but i would rather ask a dumb question than make a big mistake....thanks again for the help 
matt

I am establishing a new line for my backyard layout and have a 300" run in a straight line and am trying to calculate maximum amount of rise i can accomodate at about 2% grade, is it appropriate to use scale inches (approx. 680 scale inches) to calculate the max rise or actual inches (300") and still be able to pull the grade without issues. Any help is appreciated..
thanks
matt